An employee at the Social Security Administration who was injured on the job two decades ago has successfully secured workers’ compensation coverage for his mounting medical bills thanks to AFGE’s advocacy.
The employee was injured back in August 2006 when he slipped on water caused by a leaking pipe that had not been repaired by the agency. What began as an emergency room visit for back pain turned into a long medical journey involving multiple surgeries, extended hospitalization, and ongoing treatment.
The employee filed a workers’ compensation claim for the injuries he sustained and reached out to Joe Mansour, deputy director of worker’s compensation in AFGE’s General Counsel’s Office. Mansour assisted the employee with obtaining approvals for critical medical procedures and advised the employee not to settle his claim or allow it to be closed.
The employee faced pressure by the agency to settle his claim and, when he refused, he faced retaliation and was fired. He challenged the termination and ultimately succeeded in returning to work.
The employee has incurred nearly $1.8 million in medical expenses so far that have been covered by the workers’ compensation program, and he’s still facing additional surgery and treatment. By keeping his case open and fighting the agency’s efforts to settle, these additional costs will be covered.
The employee, who wishes to remain anonymous, said AFGE’s advice proved invaluable since his situation would have worsened if the claim was closed.
“It’s not about the money – it’s about doing what is right,” the employee said.
This case serves as a reminder that workplace injuries can have lifelong consequences and that seemingly routine decisions regarding workers’ compensation claims may significantly affect your life and financial security. It also highlights the critical role that an experienced representative can play in helping employees navigate the complex federal workers’ compensation program.
“The benefit of having a union on your side is the guidance and support it provides to help you overcome the challenges associated with an injury claim,” Mansour said.
Members in need of assistance filing workers’ compensation claims related to on-the-job injuries first should reach out to their local, which may refer the case to AFGE’s General Counsel’s Office.
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